Cardiac Care

Heart Attack Warning Signs

  • Chest Discomfort: uncomfortable pressure, squeezing, fullness or pain in the center of the chest that lasts for more than a few minutes, or goes away and comes back.
  • Upper Body Discomfort: Pain in one or both arms, the back, neck, jaw, or stomach.
  • Shortness of Breath: with or without chest discomfort. Other signs may include breaking into a cold sweat, nausea/vomiting or lightheadedness. Women are more likely to experience these symptoms.

These mild symptoms may indicate the onset of a heart attack. Early recognition and response can save lives. Don’t wait until chest pain becomes severe. At the first signs of chest discomfort, seek medical attention. Call 911. 85% of heart damage occurs within the first two hours of a blockage.

Why is this so important?

♥       Heart Disease is the number one killer in the U.S.

♥       1.2 Million Americans suffer from a heart attack every year

♥       785,000 Americans will have a first-time heart attack

♥       470,000 will have a repeat heart attack

♥       800,000 heart attack deaths occur each year

Time is Muscle! The longer you wait the more damage you allow to occur to your heart.

Stroke Warning Signs

  • Sudden weakness or numbness in the face, arm or leg
  • Temporary impairment of speech or the ability to understand speech
  • Sudden vision impairment, particularly in one eye
  • Double vision
  • Unexplained headaches or a change in headache pattern
  • Dizziness or unsteadiness when walking

For more information on early heart attack care visit www.deputyheartattack.org